The moral, dear child, is that such powers are never to be…
““The moral, dear child, is that such powers are never to be considered as the main object; it ought in fact to be obvious from the start that any one's True Will must be deeper and more comprehensive than any mere technical achievement. I will go further and say that any such endeavour must be a magical mistake, like cherishing a gun or a clock or a fishing-rod for its own sake, and not for the use that one can make of it. Indeed, that remark goes to the root of the matter; for all these powers, if we understand them properly, are natural by-products of one's real Great Work. My own experience was very convincing on this point; for one power after another came popping up when it was least wanted, and I saw at once that they represented so many leaks in my boat. And really they are quite a bit of a nuisance. Their possession is so flattering, and their seduction so subtle. One understands at once why all the first-class Teachers insist so sternly that the Siddhi (or Iddhi) must be rejected firmly by the Aspirant, if he is not to be side-tracked and ultimately lost.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
True will should guide actions, not the allure of power or tools; mastery requires rejecting superficial achievements.
In simple terms: Focus on deeper purpose, not flashy abilities.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize inner purpose over external power.
Themes
spirituality
self‑discipline
inner work
Mood
contemplative
serious
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
spiritual
advice
When to use this quote
- personal development
- meditation
- ethical decision‑making
- leadership training
Key Concepts
true will
magical mistake
Siddhi
spiritual growth
Questions to Reflect On
- What inner purpose drives your actions?
- How do you discern genuine growth from ego‑driven power?
A Different Perspective
The concept of “magical mistake” may be interpreted subjectively.